Child safety takes off

CHILD abuse and neglect were the focus at White Balloon Day recently.
As part of National Child Protection Week, the day helped raise public awareness about the problem of child abuse and to promote the wellbeing and safety of all children.
Staff from Casey Council’s children’s services along with charity Bravehearts Inc, which provides nationwide advocacy for victims of child sexual assault, handed out white helium-filled balloons and brochures to 130 local playgroups, kindergartens and childcare centres to acknowledge child protection initiatives.
City of Casey children’s services manager Colette McMahon said the wellbeing and safety of children impacted on the whole community.
“By raising the profile of all issues associated with child protection, we hope to promote the value of children in Casey,” Ms McMahon said.
Hosted by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), National Child Protection Week this year promoted child friendly communities with a focus on building stronger, more supportive, more inclusive communities that are child friendly and sustainable.